‘Mortal dangers’: MEA issues fresh advisory strongly discouraging Indian nationals from joining Russian armed forces

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday issued a fresh advisory strongly discouraging Indian nationals from treading a "dangerous path" by joining the Russian armed forces amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Despite repeated warnings over the past two years highlighting the inherent risks, the government noted that reports continue to surface regarding Indians getting recruited into the Russian military. The MEA urged citizens to remain cautious about overseas employment opportunities and avoid falling for offers from unverified agents.

"We have also come across numerous instances wherein individuals are willingly seeking out offers to join the Russian armed forces with an understanding that they would be able to avail concomitant monetary benefits, and later secure release by approaching the Indian Government. It is reiterated that this is a dangerous path and is strongly discouraged by the Government," read the MEA statement.

The ministry also flagged a concerning trend of individuals renouncing their Indian citizenship to join the Russian military.

"There have also been numerous instances wherein individuals have approached Indian authorities to willingly give up their Indian citizenship, avail a Russian passport and then get recruited in Russian armed forces. Some have already done so without consulting Indian authorities, having been lured by temporary monetary benefits. It is advised that individuals should consider the gravity of such actions and understand the mortal dangers they are exposing themselves to. The Government advises Indian nationals to refrain from taking such actions," the advisory highlighted.

Additionally, the MEA pointed out that non-public entities and voluntary groups are actively recruiting foreign nationals for Russian forces.

"Indian nationals are advised to exercise due diligence before accepting job offers from such agents which are not registered with the Ministry of External Affairs. Government of India remains continuously engaged with the Russian side to ensure the safety, well-being and early discharge of all Indian nationals in the Russian armed forces," the ministry added.

This updated advisory follows earlier confirmations by the MEA regarding discharge efforts. During a bi-weekly media briefing on July 31, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "We have been following up with the Russian side for the release of the remaining Indian nationals in the Russian army. So far, our efforts have led to the release of 139 Indian nationals; we continue to pursue the release of the remaining two dozen Indian nationals who are reportedly in the Russian army."

"Once again, we would like to caution our people against job offers that are fraught with risk and made by unscrupulous individuals and agencies," Jaiswal reiterated, warning citizens against risky job offers made by shady recruiters. (IANS)